PA Media/DPA
London
Andy Murray was extremely disappointed not to be able to play singles at Wimbledon one final time but proud of his efforts to recover from back surgery.
The 37-year-old made the decision on Tuesday morning to pull out of his scheduled first-round clash with Tomas Machac later in the day, 10 days after having a spinal cyst removed.
Murray will, though, get an on-court swansong having confirmed he will play doubles with his brother Jamie.
The pair practised together on Tuesday afternoon, with Murray saying of his singles call: “I decided this morning.
“I slept on it, I told my team and my family that I didn’t think I was going to play just based on how I felt yesterday. I practised pretty well and I was playing pretty good, I just wasn’t happy with how my leg was feeling and I wanted to sleep on it and make sure I was happy with the decision.
“I ran around at home a bit this morning when I got up and it just wasn’t where I wanted it to be unfortunately. It’s probably a few days too soon. But I worked extremely hard to at least give myself a chance to play.
“It was the right decision. It is extremely disappointing that I wasn’t able to play but, at the same time, where I’m at, 10 days after the operation in comparison to where I was told I would be and what my expectations were is incredible really.
“I obviously practised with my brother today and I look forward to playing the doubles.” Murray retired from his second-round match at Queen’s Club last month after experiencing weakness and a lack of coordination in his right leg.
He refused to rule out a final Wimbledon appearance even after going under the knife and practised at the All England Club the last few days but it was clear his movement was nowhere near 100 per cent.
“I’m disappointed, I wanted to play in the tournament,” he said. “I wanted to have a chance to go out there and walk out on my own on the Centre Court again and give it another go.
“But I also was only going to do that if I felt like I could be competitive, and I didn’t feel like that today. I’m sorry for everyone that came and wanted to support and watch again.
“I wanted that moment as well, as much for me as the people who have supported me over the years.”
